Self Storage:4 Tips On Choosing The Right Unit

If you have decided to declutter your home and place items in storage or if you are just planning a move and need temporary storage, you may be wondering how to determine what size unit you actually need and exactly what type. Storage units are usually measured in terms of square feet. The trick is knowing exactly how much room your belongings will take up.

You don't want to purchase a unit that is too large, because you will be paying for extra space you don't need. You also don't want a size too small, because your items could become damaged from being crammed inside. By following a few tips, you can easily determine how much space you actually need and figure out what kind of unit you need to rent.

Take Inventory

The first step in determining how much room you will need is to make a complete list of items you will be storing. Writing up a list is actually for two purposes. You will need a list of your belongings for insurance purposes in the event of loss. With a complete list and pictures of what you are storing, you have proof in case you have to file a claim.

Begin Packing

Ideally, you want to choose boxes of the same size. This makes it easier for you to stack the boxes on top of one another. Pack the boxes by rooms in your home and label each with the contents inside. Be sure to seal each box with packing tape in order to protect them from opening during transport. Shrink wrap any oversize items to protect against dings and scraps and to guard against dust and other debris.

Evaluate Your Needs

Before you choose the size of unit you need, you need to evaluate your property to figure out exactly what kind of unit is appropriate. This is also determined by the climate that you live in. If you live in an area that has a high humidity, you will probably want to choose a climate-controlled unit to prevent molding.

You may also want to choose a climate-control unit for important documents and fragile items. It's also a good idea to check with your home owners insurance to see if your property is protected against loss in storage. If not, you need to choose a facility that offers insurance.

Choosing the Size

Storage units usually range in size from a 5 foot by 5 foot unit as the smallest and up to a 10 foot by 30 foot unit. This may vary depending on the particular storage facility you use. The smallest unit is about the size of a small close and can hold a small bedroom worth of furniture and belongings.

The largest size unit can usually accommodate a four to five bedroom home. The storage facility that you choose to rent with will have a chart that will help you determine how much you will be storing in comparison with how much a unit will hold.

A self-storage unit is an excellent way to provide a safe and secure place for you to store your belongings. Whether you will be storing items you do not use daily or you need a place to store items between moves, a storage facility like Lowest Cost Storage Guaranteed can help meet your needs. By following a few simple suggestions, you can find the right size unit that works for you.